By JIM BUTLER

According to a news release, Devacheay Martin, 23, of Pineville escaped from Rapides Detention Center about 8:30 p.m. Friday.

Accused of, among other things, attempted 2nd degree murder, he was arrested early Thursday and booked under $550,000 bail.

According to a news release/broadcast Saturday morning, he was at-large and considered dangerous.

Contrarily, jail records Sunday night showed him being released at 2:05 am Saturday.

That may indicate Martin had been recaptured, or maybe not, between escape and broadcast of the department news release.

The record does not indicate an escape charge added to his original booking.

According to the news release, Martin went out over a fence during recreation time.

Whether that portion of fence is topped by razor wire wasn’t addressed.

Whether Martin had assistance inside or outside the fence wasn’t addressed.

By JIM BUTLER

A Pineville woman is charged with negligent homicide for her alleged role in the shooting death of a juvenile last month.

Jamie Mullins, 38, is booked under $250,000 bond on the charge related to the January incident.

On Jan. 21 authorities arrested two juveniles, ages 15 and 16, in the case.  The younger is charged with negligent homicide, obstruction and criminal conspiracy; the older with obstruction and criminal conspiracy.

At the time, Mullins was charged with obstruction evidence tampering, contributing to delinquency and two counts of contempt.

Initially, according to officers, they were told the victim had been shot by an unknown assailant.

She posted $9,500 bail the same day of arrest. The younger teen was remanded to Renaissance, the older released to parental/guardian custody.

Further investigation, authorities say, led to the additional charge against Mullins.

By RON HIGGINS, Journal Sports

BATON ROUGE – For one half, Super Sunday was a Super Stinker for 13th-ranked LSU.

Among other negatives, the out-of-sorts Tigers missed 9 first-half layups while Alabama made 9 3-pointers.

LSU trudged to the locker room trailing by 10 points, the largest halftime homecourt deficit in Kim Mulkey’s three seasons as the Tigers’ head coach. And then. . .

“Halftime. . .what did I say to them?” Mulkey said with a twinkle in her eyes. “Today’s Sunday, it was like a prayer meeting.”

Taking Mulkey’s likely fire-and-brimstone sermon to heart, the defensive-pressin’, rebound clawin’, shot-making, ball-stealin’ Tigers finally showed up like a Louisiana late afternoon thunderstorm.

An uncharacteristic full-court LSU defensive press leveled Alabama with a 14-1 run in the first 4½ minutes of the third quarter, finally waking the Tigers from their slumber to send them barreling toward an 85-66 SEC victory in the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.

Once the Tigers got rolling it was just a matter of LSU (21-4, 8-3 SEC) choosing its victory margin over the Crimson Tide (19-7, 6-5 SEC), who had a four-game winning streak snapped.

“We told each other that if we didn’t wake up and play defense, we were going to lose this game,” said LSU junior All-American forward Angel Reese, who finished with 27 points, 19 rebounds and 6 assists. “We may need to use the press more.”

Don’t count on it. Mulkey has always viewed employing a full-court defensive press and sprinkling in some occasional zone defense as a break-glass-in-case-of-emergency measure.

Well, she did both vs. the Crimson Tide and even uncharacteristically called an early timeout with the game just three minutes old after Alabama drained its third 3-pointer for a 9-4 lead.

“There was a period of time in that first half where we looked terrible,” Mulkey said. “We looked terribly out of shape. Credit Alabama. They hit shots. They had us a step slow in everything we did.”

Behind 41-31 at halftime, LSU outscored the Crimson Tide 54-25 in the second half. It included a 30-9 third-quarter beatdown in which Reese had 11 points to outscore Alabama alone.

Once Reese got scoring help – guards Flau’jae Johnson and Mikaylah Williams scored 16 and 14 points respectively – and reserve point guard Last Tear-Poa added 11 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists after she started the second half, the gritty Crimson Tide were done.

LSU crushed Alabama 50-6 in points in the paint and 27-8 in points off turnovers.

Alabama, led by Aaliyah Nye and Loyal McQueen with 19 and 14 points, respectively, held the lead for 23:10. But the Tide had their world flipped upside down by a defensive press that Mulkey said the Tigers don’t practice much.

“Exactly what we did well in the first and second quarters – take care of the basketball, don’t give up easy baskets, get some stops, and get your transition game going – we didn’t do in the third and fourth periods,” Alabama head coach Kristy Curry said.

“Credit LSU. They made a much bigger run to finish the game than we did to start the game. They were tougher. They were more physical. They got to the free throw line (23 of 29). They annihilated us in rebounding (54-34).”

With Mississippi State’s 90-70 home loss Sunday to Florida, LSU gained sole possession of second place in the SEC with five regular season games remaining.

The Tigers don’t play again until next Monday at Texas A&M.

Contact Ron at ronhigginsmedia@gmail.com

By RON HIGGINS, Journal Sports

BATON ROUGE – Second verse, almost the exact same as the first.

No. 16 and SEC co-leader Alabama virtually copied its 109-88 league win over LSU three weeks ago in Tuscaloosa with a 109-92 cloned kill Saturday afternoon in the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.

It was the familiar story LSU has experienced in the last five seasons since Nate Oats became the Crimson Tide’s head coach.

Now winning 9 of 11 times over the Tigers, Oats doesn’t see a reason to rewrite his victory formula. He’s all about obtaining a huge number of possessions, resulting in a ridiculously high number of shot attempts (most of them 3-pointers) that usually gets a win no matter how poorly his team might shoot.

Alabama had 81 possessions vs. LSU and scored 37 of its 38 field goals on 18 3’s, 12 layups and 7 dunks. It scored 28 points off 19 offensive rebounds and 23 points off 12 LSU turnovers.

“I’ve played this way, pretty fast, for 20 years since I was (head coach) at Romulus (Mich.),” said Oats whose team is 17-7 overall and 9-2 in the SEC.

“Develop really good players, opening up the floor and letting them actually play their game. The best way to do that is play fast.

“I tell the guys all the time we’re going to be one of the fastest teams in the country because our goal is to be the most efficient team.”

Alabama drilled 8 3-pointers in the first 10 minutes of the game including 5 of 6 in a 2-minute span and closed the win swishing 6 3’s in the last 7½ minutes to turn away one last LSU rally.

“We had poor shot selection,” LSU head coach Matt McMahon said about his team taking a one-point lead with 9 1/2 minutes left and missing three straight 3s while Alabama responded, hitting a trio of 3s in-a-row. “Every man for himself hasn’t been a good formula for us.

“Alabama’s terrific because there’s no hero shot coming. They just move it (the ball) to the next guy. If you (defensively) rotate to him, he moves it to the next guy until they get a great, high-quality shot.”

The Crimson Tide’s ball movement was absolutely dazzling, resulting in five players scoring in double figures. Senior guards Mark Sears and Latrell Wrightsell Jr, had 23 and 21 points respectively with Wrightsell also collecting 10 rebounds for a double-double.

Wrightsell fired in 6 of 9 3’s, which apparently wasn’t enough for Oats who said he “gets irritated when he (Wrightsell) passes open shots. . .he’s such a good shooter I pretty much count 3 points in my head when he shoots.”

Wrightsell appreciates being greenlighted by Oats.

“We’re not supposed to pass up any open threes,” Wrightsell said. “We need to shoot good open shooting threes that we create for each other. He (Oats) tells me that (to take more shots) everyday in practice. It definitely gives me confidence.”

LSU started the game hitting its first 12 of 15 field goal attempts yet trailed 28 26 because 6 of Alabama’s first 10 buckets were 3-pointers.

Forward Will Baker, who had 25 points in Tigers’ 95-74 win over Arkansas last Saturday when he scored 17 in the first half, scored 22 of his game-total 24 in the first 14:20 minutes.

The lanky 7-foot lefty, a graduate transfer from Nevada, dipped into his full bag of offensive moves with spinning layups, up and under moves and 3 pointers. He hit his first 6 shots, scoring 13 of the Tigers’ opening 22 points as LSU eventually trailed 49-46 at halftime.

In the second half, Baker had more turnovers (3) than points (2, both on free throws) and missed his only two field goal attempts.

“They (Alabama) made some adjust adjustments knowing I might drive,” Baker said.

LSU also made it a point of emphasis at halftime to close out quicker on any Crimson Tide 3-point shooter. Alabama’s answer was finding open lanes to the basket for Alabama. Nine of the Tide’s first 13 made field goals were layups or dunk as the visitors took a 68-57 lead with 13:51 left.

LSU’s offense finally re-heated. It hit 6 of 7 shots including back-to-back 3s by Jalen Cook and Tyrell Ward, on a 15-3 rally for a 72-71 Tigers’ lead with 9:32 left to play.

The Tide missed 6 of 7 shots, including 5 3’s during LSU’s comeback. Yet just as easily as Alabama’s long-distance touch disappeared, it re-appeared to drive a stake into the Tigers’ hearts.

‘Bama knocked down six straight 3-pointers and left LSU in the rearview mirror to contemplate another loss.

“For the first 32 minutes, playing smart and moving the ball offensively enabled us to have a better opportunity to defend them in transition,” McMahon said. “But some of our poor offense and the second-half turnovers helped fuel the 3’s threes they were able to get.”

  LSU has two road games this week, first on Tuesday at Florida (16-7, 6-4) and then at SEC-co leader No. 15 South Carolina (21-3, 9-2 SEC) on Saturday.

Contact Ron at ronhigginsmedia@gmail.com

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

February 8

Devacheay Martin, 23, Pineville — attempted murder 2nd degree, firearm possession by convicted felon, parole violations, $550,000 bail;

Curtis Rominger, 32, Deville — aggravated assault with firearm, theft, $10,500 bail.

February 9

Kenneth Antoine Jr., 40, Alexandria — domestic abuse battery serious injury, contempt 2 counts, $15,500 bail;

Kelvin Harrison, 40, Alexandria — aggravated battery 2nd degree, resisting 2 counts, armed robbery, probation violations, $251,000 bail;

Enrico Malone, 47, Cheneyville — domestic abuse battery child present, contempt, $2,500;

Joseph Owen Jr., 42, Alexandria — domestic abuse battery strangulation, battery, parole violation, $20,500.

February 10

None

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

February 8

Brandon Brown, 23, Alexandria — possession with intent, contempt 2 counts, $6,000 bail;

Zydakeona Daniel, 26, Alexandria — possession, no brake lamp, illegal possession stolen firearm, $3,100 bail;

Clyde Dorsey, 34, Alexandria — possession, driving under suspension/revocation, modified exhaust, contempt, $3,200 bail;

Cedric Hurts, 48, Alexandria — possession, running stop sign, $2,600 bail;

David Johnson, 40, Pineville — possession, paraphernalia, contempt 4 counts, $7,000 bail;

Johnny Kelly Jr., 43, Alexandria — possession, no vehicle insurance, expired late/registration, contempt, $5,800 bail;

Ryan Linzay, 48, Alexandria — possession, tail lamps required, improper headlights height, expired inspection, modified exhaust, resisting, $1,300 bail;

Christopher Michels Sr., 43, Alexandria — possession, criminal trespass, burglary, $1,000 bail;

Nathanial Perry, 27, Alexandria — possession, firearm possession by convicted felon, $1,500 bail;

Chadwick Rogers, 52, Pineville — possession, criminal mischief, false report, contempt 2 counts, $55,000 bail;

David Speaks, 41, Shreveport — possession, paraphernalia, obstruction/evidence tampering, $3,000 bail;

April Strong, 30, Alexandria — possession, contempt, $7,500 bail.

February 9

Christopher Briggs, 20, Pineville — possession, paraphernalia, obstruction evidence tampering, resisting 2 counts, bicycle lamps/reflectors required, $4,600 bail;

Michael Carr, 58, Alexandria — possession 2 counts, obstructing highway/private drive (sporting event), contempt, parole violations, $7,700 bail;

Dwight Drouin, 40, Alexandria — possession, obstruction of highway, contempt 2 counts, failure to pay fine, $8,000 bail;

Joanie Edwards, 43, Alexandria — possession 2 counts, obstructing highway/private drive (sporting event), contempt 2 counts, $22,700 bail;

Jamonthe Henderson, 25, Alexandria — possession 2 counts, paraphernalia, $5,500 bail;

Kami Lae, 39, Alexandria — possession 2 counts, paraphernalia, $5,500 bail;

Buffy Tuma, 35, Pineville — possession 2 counts, $4,000 bail;

Roy White, 35, Alexandria — possession, improper license plate display, $2,600 bail;

Delmonte Zone, 24, Alexandria — possession 10 counts, attempted murder 2nd degree, aggravated battery 2nd degree, criminal damage 2 counts, domestic abuse battery, firearm possession by convicted felon, parole violations, $620,500.

February 10

Jayda Ambush, 23, Alexandria — possession, unauthorized use of food stamps, resisting, $1,600 bail;

Leo Cane, 46, Pineville — possession 3 counts, no vehicle registration, $2,100 bail;

Untrail Jackson, 36, Alexandria — possession 2 counts, contempt 8 counts, $53,000 bail;

Jerry Moses Jr., 38, Alexandria — possession 3 counts, paraphernalia, driving under suspension/revocation, no license plate light, $5,200 bail;

Mikeal Raymond, 23, Alexandria — possession, contempt 3 counts, $10,500 bail;

Anthony Wood, 30, Ball — possession 2 counts, criminal trespass, contempt 3 counts, $6,500 bail. 

Opinion by JEANNIE RITCHIE

Growing up I always heard the saying “When you ASSUME, you make an ASS out of U and ME” and the message stuck with me.

The lesson, however, would not come for many more years. I assumed a lot. My overthinking mind usually made scenarios worse than they really were. I didn’t give people the benefit of doubt, my life lessons often showing me the underside of people.

I was a jackass at best. A slave to an imprisoning mind at worst. None of it was necessary. 

I’m not the only one. This happens a lot in our society as evidenced by Lana Del Ray’s Instagram post coming to Taylor Swift’s defense a few days after the Grammys. Taylor pulled her fellow Album of the Year nominee up to the stage with her as she accepted her win. Calling it a mean girl move because Lana had just lost, viewers insisted Taylor purposefully put her in an uncomfortable position. The assumptions were based on how they would feel if it had happened to them, how they perceived the facial expressions and body language of each woman, and their personal life experiences.

That doesn’t make it truth, however.

“I literally just loved being there….I..did not feel one ounce of negative emotion at any point…” She didn’t have to explain herself, but she chose to. It seems hypocritical for me to assume her reasoning in an article decrying speculation, but it seems safe to say she was supporting a friend who has had to stare into the face of a thousand barrels lately.

Maybe it’s okay to assume if you give people the benefit of doubt. Maybe that’s the only time assumptions don’t turn you into a member of the Equidae family.

I’m no Taylor Swift but I understand having to deal with people and their faulty assumptions.

My second husband and I are following Katherine Woodward Thomas’ “conscious uncoupling” method. When Gwyneth Paltrow popularized the term during her divorce to Chris Martin in 2014, I dismissed it as another bizarre celebrity trend.

I’m wondering now why I thought amicable divorces were so strange. Surely, I hadn’t forgotten my first divorce and the every-other-weekend exchanges in the McDonald’s parking lot. I remember the years it took to pay off the lawyers. I painfully recall every joyous event in my children’s lives that was marred by the “gladiator uncoupling” method we’d used instead of the symbiotic relationship we have now.

I wouldn’t make the same mistake twice. My second husband and I didn’t have minor children, but we did have grandchildren. If children are Circle K, grandchildren are BUC-EE’S.

But people didn’t understand. That was fair; our separation had started off rocky and we didn’t hold a press conference when it evened out. I’m open but discreet; those details weren’t yet made public. I did share privately though. That’s where the assumptions came in.

“You called off the divorce?” 

No, we can be amicable and still divorce.

“You’ll be okay.” 

I’m actually better than ever.

“He’s just saying what he thinks you want to hear.”

“You’re just saying what he wants to hear.”

He’s 70; I’m 54. We’re confident in our discernment. I know my intentions.

“You were planning this for a long time.”

Because slinking back to your hometown in exile with no money and a complete career change in middle age is on every girl’s bucket list?

“How is he going to handle it when you start dating someone?”

I’m not dating; I’m returning to SBC. No, that’s not the Southern Baptist Convention; it’s Single by Choice.   

“You’re faking your friendship for clicks.”

Really? You give me more credit in the self-control department than I deserve.

We can only change our negative thinking by fostering healthy communication. Ask questions; accept answers at face value. Deep diving for hurts only causes mental pain. If you aren’t sure, always presume positivity!

By JIM BUTLER

Compliance audits required by the NCAA affirm football is king — on both sides of the ledger — of Louisiana university athletics.

Reports issued as the Super Bowl approaches show gridiron revenue at six schools – McNeese, ULM, Nicholls, Southeastern, La Tech and ULL – totaled $30.4 million in the year ending last June 30. Total athletic income including institutional support was $119.5 million. Total athletic expense was $135.3 million.

The big kid on the block – LSU- had football income of $106 million. Its football program expenses totaled $51.6 million.

The total LSU athletic income was $200.5 million and expenses were $204.4 million Overall, the universities had total athletic revenue of $320 million and expenses of $339.7 million.

Northwestern is not included in the calculations because its audit report is not yet available.

In the previous fiscal year audit NSU had football revenue of $2.2 million. Total athletic revenue was $13.5 million and expenses were $13.2 million.

Only McNeese ended the latest audit year in the black, at $15 million in and $14.9 million out.

Other year-end numbers: ULM -$1.7 million; Nicholls -$1.6 million, Southeastern -$900,000, La Tech -$3.9 million, ULL -$8.2 million, LSU -$3.9 million.

Basketball expenses far exceeded revenues except at Southeastern where specific sport expenses were held to budgeted dollars.

LSU’s national championship women’s basketball program had revenue of $2.5 million and expenses of $10.3 million.

The baseball team also won a national championship but its numbers are included in “other”, which had revenue of $11.6 million and expenses of $37.6 million.

Other also includes softball, track and field and all other intercollegiate sports the university offers.

BOM Bank, a leading financial institution dedicated to serving the community, proudly announces a significant milestone as it crosses the $1 billion mark in total assets. This achievement underscores the unwavering commitment to its customers, exceptional service, and steady growth in an ever-evolving financial landscape.

Since its establishment in 1903 with $15,000 in capital, BOM Bank has remained deeply rooted in the community. As the bank expanded its offerings and services, it consistently upheld its core values, earning the trust and loyalty of its customers while contributing to the economic development in northern Louisiana and surrounding areas. BOM now employs over 165 team members among 19 branches in Grant, Natchitoches, Sabine, Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Rapides Parish in Louisiana in addition to Sabine and Angelina County in Texas serving over 30,000 customers.

Reaching $1 billion in assets represents a momentous accomplishment for BOM Bank, symbolizing prudent financial management, strategic planning, and the trust placed in the institution by its valued customers. Despite economic challenges, the bank’s resilience, dedication, and commitment to its hardworking customers have propelled its growth and positioned it as a leading financial institution in Louisiana and East Texas.

BOM Bank’s President and CEO, Ken Hale, expressed gratitude for this landmark achievement, stating, “Achieving one billion dollars in assets represents a significant milestone that reflects the dedication and collective efforts of the entire BOM team and our steadfast customers. This accomplishment stands as a testament to years of hard work and commitment. I am incredibly grateful and deeply humbled. I want to thank our staff, local communities and customers for their overwhelming support of BOM. Without each of you, this achievement would not be possible. We remain committed to our community roots by focusing on customer service and giving back to our communities.”

As part of its ongoing commitment to community development, BOM Bank has consistently supported local initiatives, charitable organizations, and educational programs. BOM Bank is an accredited Community Development Financial Institution dedicated to volunteerism and catering to the needs of the unbanked and underbanked communities. The bank provides specialized resources, such as a credit builder program and a certified BankOn checking account, designed specifically for individuals outside the traditional financial system and those striving to cultivate sound financial practices. With this milestone, the bank stands as an indispensable pillar and reaffirms its dedication to fostering growth and prosperity within the communities it serves. BOM Bank, a face you know, a bank you can trust.

About BOM Bank: BOM Bank has been providing customers with a variety of products and services since 1903. BOM now employs over 165 staff members among 19 locations in Grant, Natchitoches, Sabine, Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, and Rapides parishes in Louisiana in addition to Sabine and Angelina County in Texas serving over 30,000 customers. For a complete list of locations, as well as products and services, visit bofm.com or follow us on social media @bomest1903. BOM – a face you know, a bank you can trust.

Rodney Boswell, Lori Cumberland, Kim Boler, Bettina Troquille and Charlene Young, would like to introduce their new company and exceptional team members to the Natchitoches community and surrounding areas.

IHS Group, an experienced tax and accounting firm, has four locations open in Natchitoches, Many, Pineville, and Leesville.

“At IHS Group, we are committed to extending our assistance to individuals and companies, wherever they may be located,” said Boswell, who explained that he’s been building toward this new business venture for years.

With over 80 years of accumulated experience in the tax and accounting services field and 30 years of experience as a leadership coach, the IHS Group team is a force to be reckoned with. Whether you’re looking to improve your tax strategies, streamline your accounting processes, or enhance your leadership skills, IHS Group is here to guide you. This includes tax planning and strategy consulting, accounting services, payroll services, business consulting and leadership coaching.

“As an Enrolled Agent, I have the opportunity to help people and businesses maximize their tax benefits, ensuring they keep more of their hard-earned money,” said Kimbra Boler, EA.

At IHS Group, the vision is clear: We exist to inspire individuals to reach their full potential. We’re here to team up with entrepreneurs and business owners, helping them scale their business, save on taxes, and accumulate wealth. Our mission is to guide you through the intricacies of the accounting and tax industry while providing invaluable leadership coaching and consulting services.

“Rodney’s leadership skills are exceptional. He is invested in his team’s well-being and growth. He encourages everyone he meets to strive to reach their full potential,” said Catherine Whittington.

“We understand that your needs are unique, and we’re here to provide the right solutions to help you achieve your business goals,” Boswell added.

To get started and schedule a consultation TODAY, go online to www.ishgroup.com or call 318-302-0879.

As the playoffs near closer, the games leading up to the postseason are filled with so much intensity.

This week was just that as some teams make their final preparations for the playoffs.

Once again, we delve into the top storylines from this past week with the Rapides Parish Hoops Report.

Tinsley wins 500^th as Northwood defeats LaSalle

Northwood coach Alan Tinsley has accomplished a lot during his long head coaching career and he added another milestone Tuesday.

The former Louisiana Christian assistant and Buckeye, Tioga and ASH coach won his 500^th game after Northwood defeated LaSalle 63-42 in Lena Tuesday.

“It feels awesome, but it also feels great to share it with these young men and coaching staff,” Tinsley said.

The Gators trailed 28-23 at halftime but exploded for 32 points in the third quarter to take control of the game.

Perfect no more: Buckeye boys suffer pair of tough losses

Unfortunately, all things must come to an end.

Buckeye opened the season with a 25-0 start but had a pair of close losses to Marksville and Bunkie last week to drop their record to 26-2.

The Panthers trailed Marksville last Friday 10-0, before tying the game last in the first half. However, the Tigers scored six straight in the fourth to hand Buckeye its first loss. Buckeye would then fall in overtime Thursday to Bunkie, 35-32.

With a week to go in the season, Buckeye can still earn a first round bye, but will need some help to set up some tiebreaker games for the extra district power point.

Best Wins of the Week

This week’s best girls wins spotlight goes to Buckeye for upsetting Marksville and Caldwell Parish to keep their playoff hopes alive on the final weekend of the season.

Sophia Graves scored a career-high 17 points in a 47-24 win over the Spartans as the Lady Panthers need to beat Jena and get extra help to go to the playoffs.

For the guys, the honor goes to Alexandria Senior High for defeating Ruston and righting a shaky ship of late.

The Trojans outscored Ruston, 20-10, in the fourth quarter to take a 55-46 road win thanks to senior Jaylin Johnson’s 17 points and eight rebounds.

 10 Games for the Next 10 Days

Here is this week’s look at the 10 most anticipated games for this weekend and next week involving Rapides Parish schools.

 Girls

Buckeye at Jena (tonight): After defeating Marksville and Caldwell Parish last week, the Lady Panthers find themselves in a must-win game if they hope to make the playoffs. Buckeye must beat Jena and hope St. Louis and L.B. Landry lose to sneak in with the final spot.

Fairview at Plainview (tonight): Slowing down a Fairview squad that has given up just 15.7 points in district play is a tall task, but the District 5-C title is still on the line for Plainview. The Lady Hornets have played well of late – winning five of their last seven.

Glenmora at Menard (tonight): The Lady Cats came away with the upset on Jan. 23 with a 44-42 home win, thanks to a double-double by senior Alexsia Branch. Menard will look to extract revenge against its in-parish rival as both teams look to solidify their footing in Division III select and could set up a rematch in the quarterfinals in the right scenarios.

Oak Hill at Anacoco (tonight): Despite Hicks clinching the District 4-B title and both teams locked in to their current seeds, this is still a good playoff tune-up. Both teams are among the best in Cenla and could hoist trophies in Hammond this March.

Boys

Ouachita at ASH (tonight): It does not get any better than a winner-take-all game for the District 2-5A title. The Trojans have been reeling of late, but beating the Lions could put them in an outstanding position to earn a first round bye with an extra power point as the district champion.

Buckeye at Jena (tonight): A pair of home losses to Marksville and Bunkie now has the Panthers needing a win and help to clinch a share of District 2-3A. Buckeye has to beat Jena and hope for Marksville to defeat Bunkie to set up a three-way tie and a possible unique district tiebreaker.

Pineville vs. Peabody (Saturday, at ASH): Old rivals square off in Alexandria Senior High’s four-game showcase to help teams earn extra power points. Watch out for the battle in the post between seniors Jordan Mathews for the Warhorses and Javonte Thomas for the Rebels.

St. Thomas More vs. Tioga (Saturday, at ASH): Another big game in ASH’s showcase, this one will prep the Indians against one of the top teams in their division.

Pineville at ASH (Feb. 13): This is a “non-district” game because District 2-5A is playing one round this year, but the energy will remain the same. The Rebels won on Jan. 26 as Jordyn Johnson missed the last game for ASH, but Johnson was the hero with a game-winning 3-pointer the last time these teams met in Caesar’s Palace last year.

Avoyelles Charter at Peabody (Feb. 17): Yes, the Hall of Fame Game is an exhibition of sorts but there is always a lot of pride on the line. The Warhorses welcome the defending Division V select champions in a playoff tune-up for both teams.

A former sports reporter for The Town Talk in Alexandria and the Natchitoches Times in Natchitoches, LaMar Gafford has covered the sports scene in Central Louisiana for the last 10 years. Along with contributing a weekly basketball column for the Rapides Parish Journal, the 2023 recipient of the LHSAA’s Prep Journalism award and eight-time LSWA award winner writes about Cenla sports for his website CenlaPreps.com. You can contact LaMar by e-mail at lamargafford@gmail.com or on Twitter/X @lamargafford.

The LA Regents Region 6 LaSTEM Center, hosted by NSU’s Alexandria campus at England Airpark, was joined by their fellow centers in Regions 3 and 8 in hosting the 2024 “Find the Recipe for Rural STEM” at the Megashelter south of Alexandria Friday, February 8. The event was attended by over 1,400 students from schools throughout central Louisiana. The youngsters got to see displays, demonstrations and try hands-on educational activities from over 27 agencies, colleges, and firms.

The annual event is just one of many initiatives sponsored by the LaSTEM centers to spark an interest in the sciences, math, and engineering among our state’s young minds. Representatives from LSUA and Louisiana Christian University were joined by colleagues from other colleges, government, and industry in presenting fun educational activities. From trying out flight simulators to learning about body systems, the students got to see their world in a new light.

Much of LaSTEM’s mission is to show our state’s young people possibilities they may not have realized. The school’s representatives’ love of their subjects was obvious. They were superb ambassadors for their universities and subject areas.

The Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts likewise brought a table of sharp young people. The LSMSA students showed their young visitors a row of microscopes with everything from bread mold to insect legs to see under magnification.

Lunch was a savory GUMBO (Geographically United for Making Better Opportunities) in conjunction with the day’s theme) served by Marksville’s Big John’s Meats.

It was a joy to watch faculty, industry leaders and college students that have an obvious passion for what they do share that knowledge and passion with our area’s young people.

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

February 2

Fernice Guilbeau Jr., 50, Pineville — OWI 1st, hit & run, illegal window tint, careless operation, 12:03 p.m., $1,700 bail.

February 7

Warren O’Conner, 37, Alexandria — DWI 1st, negligent injury vehicular, improper turn, probation violation, 4:03 p.m., $2,170 bail.